No deal: David James will not be coming to Celtic after the SPL side ended their interest. Pic: ©Reuters
David James is no longer a transfer target for Celtic, it has been reported. The England number one was expected in Glasgow for talks on Monday but postponed his trip, leaving Neil Lennon to look elsewhere for a new goalkeeper to replace Artur Boruc.
Celtic's interest in Timo Hildebrand came to light on Friday and, with the 31-year-old likely to command a lower wage packet than the one-time Liverpool goalie, the SPL side are likely to turn their attentions to the German keeper instead.
James had also been available on a free transfer following his release from Portsmouth. But a number of other clubs down south are believed to be keen on his signature, delaying further any decision on whether he would switch to Celtic.
Sky Sports reported on Friday afternoon that Celtic had ended their pursuit of James, who will turn 40 on Sunday. Bristol City are the latest club to be linked with making him an offer, together with Sunderland.
Lukasz Zaluska was in goals for Celtic's 3-0 defeat against Braga in the Champions League third qualifying round but Lennon has already stated his wish to bring in a new number one.
Speaking of James before the deal collapsed, Lennon stated his desire to bring a top class goalkeeper to Parkhead to replace Boruc and stated the one-time Liverpool man could have done the job.
CELTIC'S KEEPER CONUNDRUM
- Celtic interested in German keeper Hildebrand
- Celtic talks with David James postponed
- Boruc completes Fiorentina move
“I want to get the best goalkeeper I possibly can," the Celtic boss said. "Not only for the league and Europe but also someone who can fill Artur's shoes - and he's one who can.
"He will come up and have a look and see if he fancies it. I'd like to speak to him myself and see what he is thinking. But the fact they have made the initial contact is very encouraging.”
